American Airlines invests $1 million in ALS research

American Airlines has donated $1 million to ALS research | Courtesy of Shutterstock

American Airlines recently agreed to a multi-year financial commitment to the Answer ALS research project, investing $1 million in the most comprehensive genetic, clinical, biochemical and molecular assessment of ALS.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease, damages the nerve cells located in the spinal cord and brain. It is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease because of the famous baseball player who had an ALS diagnosis.

With this donation and partnership, employees at American Airlines can join the Answer ALS research project by meeting with leading ALS researchers at six program locations.

“With more than 100,000 employees at American, statistically, several of our team members or their family members will receive an ALS diagnosis,” Doug Parker, CEO of American Airlines, said. “Most recently, Vice President of Finance Peter Warlick disclosed his personal battle with ALS. Since receiving his diagnosis, Peter has become a champion for all American employees fighting this disease by exploring the current state of research available to those afflicted with ALS, and determining more can be done. We are proud to partner with Peter and Answer ALS on behalf of all American employees who are suffering from ALS. Similar to American’s support of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, we believe there is a real opportunity to bring attention to orphan diseases like ALS that require additional awareness and fundraising support in order to bring them to an end.”